Histone H3 is a proliferation-dependent gene. Cancer is a disease involving inappropriate cell division. A realistic model is greatly needed to understand the biology of altered proliferation in cancer as compared to normal tissue and to use information on proliferation capacity as a basis of cancer prognosis and treatment. In this study, the expression of the histone H3 gene was analyzed by in situ hybridization (ISH) to determine the proliferation patterns of malignant gingival lesions. Samples f four normal gingivae and ten gingival carcinomas were obtained from Chung Shan Medical and Dental College Hospital. Eight- μ m sections were cut, mounted onto gelatin coated slides and processed by the standard method for ISH with □ S-labeled H3 riboprobe. The H3 mRNA hybridization signals were in accordance with the histopathology of the biopsies. In normal gingival, H3 mRNA signals were only seen occasionally in the basal layer. In gingival carcinomas highly elevated H3 mRNA expression was noted. In the present study, the sensitive nature of the histone H3 gene could be used as an indicator of proliferation in normal and malignant gingival lesions. It might be important in determining subsequent treatment modalities for oral cancers.
